A masterpiece with a legal secret: Jan van Eyck’s "Portrait of the Arnolfini Couple" (1434) shows a morganatic union. The groom holds his bride’s right hand with his left—defying tradition, signaling she won’t inherit his wealth or titles. The painting acts as a marriage contract in paint. Above the mirror, an inscription reads “Jan van Eyck was here,” not as a joke but as a legal witness. The mirror reflects two onlookers—one is Van Eyck himself, serving as official notary to the union before God and law. #ArtHistory #VanEyck #Secrets

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